Photos: Sights, color and moments captured at the first World Cup match in the Bay Area since 1994

An international crowd of 67,966 people braved the hot Santa Clara sun to watch Switzerland face Qatar in the Bay Area's World Cup opener at Levi's Stadium.

Fans of both countries were joined by Mexicans, Argentines, Japanese, Americans and more, all easily identified by the cultural attire and jerseys they wore. A late goal by Boualem Khoukhi gave Qatar its first point in its short World Cup history and carried the team to a stunning 1-1 draw with the powerful Swiss team.

Qatar goalkeeper Mahmud Abunada suffered a scary head collision with Switzerland’s Remo Freuler in which he lay on the pitch motionless afterwards. Although he required on-field treatment, he stayed in the game and made some crucial saves in the match.

The next FIFA World Cup game at Levi’s Stadium will be Austria vs. Jordan on Tuesday, with kick off at 9:00 p.m. Pacific time. The venue will host six total matches during the tournament, including five group-stage games and one Round of 32 knockout match on July 1.

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This story was originally published June 13, 2026 at 6:18 PM.